Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
BIODIESEL GLYCEROL EMULSION FUEL MIXTURES
RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims the benefit of priority to United States Provisional
.. Patent Application serial number 61/993,669, filed May 15, 2014.
BACKGROUND
Field
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to renewable, cost-effective and
low
.. emission fuels, including those used in heating power generation, and
transportation.
Summary of the related art
Combustion of petroleum based fuels (fossil fuels) contribute to increased
levels
of carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), particulate matter (PM),
nitrogen oxides
(N0x), sulfur oxides (S0x) and other emissions in the earth's environment,
which cause
respiratory health effects, illnesses and contribute to climate change.
Globally, major
initiatives are underway to regulate power and transportation emissions using
a
combination of fuel quality controls, combustion aftertreatment requirements,
and
consumption mandates. Limiting sulfur content in petroleum fuels has helped to
reduce
particulate and acid rain causing pollutants, but results in poor fuel
lubricity and increased
fuel costs, thereby placing a greater operational demand on the end user.
Alternative
fuels, such as biodiesel, are attractive because they are inherently low in
sulfur and reduce
PM, CO and hydrocarbon (HC) emissions compared to low-sulfur diesel. These
fuels
typically contain heteroatoms, such as oxygen, which increases fuel lubricity
extending
equipment lifetimes.
Biodiesel is typically derived from renewable feedstock; for example, plants,
animal fat, microorganisms, or other organisms, that have either fatty acid or
lipid
(triglyceride) structures. The feedstock are commonly converted into long-
chain (fatty)
methyl- or ethyl-esters for use in heat, power and transportation
applications. Biodiesel
can be used as a stand-alone fuel or as a blend with petroleum-based fuels. A
common
designation for these types of fuel blends is BX, where X is between 0-100 and
represents
the percent volume of biodiesel in the mixture.
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As a comparison, hydrocarbon fuels derived from petroleum are compounds that
do
not contain oxygen and are non-polar. Biodiesel fuels contain oxygen
functional groups,
alkyl esters, which are polar. Biodiesel contains only trace amounts of sulfur
and aromatic
molecules, whereas many petroleum fuels contain significant amounts of sulfur
and
aromatic molecules. Resulting physical and chemical properties of a
hydrocarbon are
largely determined by the presence of oxygen, sulfur, aromatic functional
groups, and polar
functional groups. Therefore, petroleum derived fuels typically are low in
specific gravity,
are energy dense, have low flash points and exhibit low viscosity. Biodiesel,
and its blends
with petroleum fuels, exhibit higher specific gravity, lower energy density,
higher flash
points and increased viscosity. A summary of the differences between biodiesel
and
petroleum distillate fuel properties can be found in Table I. Because
biodiesel and
petroleum fuels have different physicochemical properties, fuel handling
system materials
arc often incompatible. For example, accelerated degradation of naturalized
rubber hose-
liners and gaskets has been documented while utilizing biodiesel.
Table Comparison of the physical and chemical properties of biodiesel with 42
petroleum distillates demonstrating the unique characteristics of biodiesel.
Property Test Method 42 Petroleum
Biodiesel
Distillates
Heating Value (Kag) ASTM D240 46-48 40-42
Carbon Number (mol-Clmol) NIA g..,/ I 8-25
Oxygen:Carbon Ratio (mollmoll ASTM 1)5291 -0.11
Hydrogen:Carbon Ratio (tnol/niol) ASTM D5291 -1.8 -1.9
Flash Point (DC) ASTM 1)93 <73
.1(X1-170
Cetane Number (Rating) ASTM 1)975 40-55 48-65
Autoignition Temperature (DC) ASTM E659 315 -150
Molecular Weight (Ave.) (kiekMol) N/A -200 270-300
Kinematic 'Viscosity (i.4 40DC (cSt.) ASTM 13445 1-3 3-5
Specific Gravity 25'C A SIM D1298 -0.84 -0.88
Aromatics (wt/wt.) ASTM 1)6591 <35 0
As biodiesel is harvested from living organisms the net carbon .foot print is
below
that of petroleum-based fuels when combusted. Biodiesels, however, offer poor
cold
weather performance and reduced shelf-life resulting from crystallization and
oxidation
processes, respectively. As such, biodiesel can benefit from additives or
chemical
modifications to increase fuel shelf-life, and improve cold weather
performance. Oxidation
is the primary ageing mechanism of biodiesel, especially the transformation of
the
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unsaturated fatty acid esters inherent in the biodiesel. Saturating the fatty
acids by
hydrogenation can increase storage stability and reduce oxidation rates;
however, this
adversely affects resulting cold weather performance as wax-like molecules are
prone to
crystalize and may block fuel filters. Similarly, metals such as zinc and
copper within fuel
handling components have been shown to increase the rates of oxidation
contributing to
fuel aging concerns. Biodiesei additives have been developed to minimize these
concerns.
Typical storage additives are anti-oxidants, such as tert-butylhydroquinone
(THBQ) or
butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), which increase shelf-life. Cold weather
additives, such as
neopentilltlycol and trimethylol propane fatty esters, reduce crystallization
temperatures of
the fatty esters and can extend the operational temperatures of the fuels.
The combustion of biodiesel (BI 00) has been studied for its environmental
benefits
compare to petroleum-based diesels. The U.S. EPA, as defined by the Renewable
Fuel
Standard, has determined that the net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions
from vegetable
based biodiesel is approximately 50% on a life-cycle basis. Further,
reductions in HC
emissions have been reported as high as 67%, accompanied by reductions in CO
and PM of
approximately 50%. Conversely, NOx emissions are reported to increase by as
much as
10%. Since NOx is a known contributor to smog and ground level ozone, methods
to
reduce the formation of NOx during combustion is desirable. Emulsification of
water in
biodiesel has been demonstrawd to incrementally reduce NOx emissions
associated with
biodiesel combustion. Water, in amounts up to 20% (vol/vol) of the overall
mixture, can
either be stabilized in the fuel at the point of storage using surfactants or
can be introduced
at the point of consumption. Using this method, NOx and PM reductions are
reduced to
levels below either stand-alone petroleum or biodiesel combustion. Utilization
of water,
however, reduces the energy density of the fuel mixture since water does not
participate in
the combustion process. Further, water can accelerate corrosion of low-carbon
steels if not
used or stored appropriately. Alternatively. NOx- and PM-reducing fuel
components are
desirable.
Glycerol, also called glycerin or glycerine, has the formal chemical name of
1,2,3-
propanetriol and is demonstrated to reduce unwanted emissions during
combustion
.. processes. Glycerol is commonly produced from renewable, vegetable-based,
feedstock. In
biodiesel manufacturing, the glycerol is often considered a low-value co-
product that ends
up in the aqueous processing streams and is either burned directly for process
heat or is
upgraded and sold into the commodities markets. In order to make glycerol
accessible for
3
most power and transportation applications, it must be introduced as a fuel
mixture in the
form of an emulsion.
Glycerol emulsions have the ability to improve fuel handling properties
compared
to petroleum-based fuels, such as bulk fluid viscosity and lubricity. Compared
to water
emulsion fuels, glycerol emulsion fuels offer high bulk fuel energy density
(MJ/kg) while
reducing emission of NOx and PM. Further, glycerol is compatible with low-
carbon steels
making the fuel mixtures less corrosive to storage and fuel handling
equipment.
Glycerol, however, is less volatile than both biodiesel and traditional
petroleum-
derived diesel fuel. This may have a detrimental effect on the combustion
quality of some
glycerol-containing fuel. Therefore, glycerol-soluble additives for combustion
improvement, thinning or viscosity modification may be used to increase
volatility and
improve combustibility of glycerol in a fuel mixture. Examples include: low
molecular
weight alcohols, ethers, and other glycerol-soluble compounds that reduce
glycerol
density and improve volatility. Combustion improvers typically take the form
of nitrates,
nitrites, ethers, furans, and peroxides. Introduction of these agents reduce
the rate of
emissions of CO and unburned HC. These compounds typically have a carbon
number
less than 10 and in some instances have carbon numbers less than 5. A
characteristic of
these materials is that they typically have flash points below 90 C, and in
some instances
flash points below 60 C. They also can have boiling points below 120 C, and
in some
instances boiling points below 90 C.
Glycerol emulsion fuels have been demonstrated utilizing petroleum-based
distillates. Cognis Corporation described a fuel mixture comprised of liquid
petroleum
products in the range of 90% and 99% (vol/vol) and glycerol between 1% and 10%
(vol/vol) [U.S. Published Patent Application Publication No. US20080110083].
Other
references have described fuel mixtures containing glycerol for various other
applications
[See EP1434834B1, EP1950273A1, US20130133245].
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BR1EF SUMMARY
in certain embodiments, the invention relates to formulation of fuel mixtures
that
contain glycerol, with or without glycerol-soluble compounds, emulsified
within a base-fuel
comprising biodiesel. In certain embodiments, the invention provides fuel
mixtures
comprising glycerol and biodiesel; these fuel mixtures reduce unwanted
combustion
emissions and improve emulsion fuel handling properties. in certain
embodiments, the
invention provides fuel mixtures containing glycerol that are resistant to
phase separation
for extended periods of time. In certain embodiments, the invention provides
reductions in
combustion emissions and substantially greater range of operating conditions
when
compared to water-fuel emulsion mixtures because of higher resultant energy
density.
In certain embodiments, the fuel mixtures according to the invention provide
an
important improvement over the related art because the fuel mixtures according
to this
invention use renewable glycerol and biod.iesel fuel components to
significantly reduce
regulated and greenhouse gas emissions, and are resistant to phase separation
for extended
periods of time and thus do not have to be produced immediately prior to
consumption.
In a first aspect, the invention provides a fuel mixture comprising a fuel
selected
from the group consisting of 100% biodiesel (f1100), any mixture of biodiesel
and various
petroleum diesel oils and. heating oil (No. 2), no smatter the fuel sources or
additives, all
collectively hereinafter referred to as "biodiesel blend stock"; glycerol and
glycerol soluble
compounds; with or without surfactants, and with or without additives for fuel
property
modification; wherein the mixture resists phase separation.
In certain embodiments, an object of the invention is to provide a fuel
mixture that
has viscosity and heat content properties that are suitable for use in
existing or new engines,
but which, upon combustion, produces lower emissions of carbon monoxide (CO),
sulfur
dioxide (SOA nitrous oxides (Ox), carbon dioxide (C04 and particulate matter
(pm) and
greenhouse gases than conventional fuels and biodiesels that currently are
used to power
engines or boilers, In certain embodiments, these fuel mixtures are expected
to reduce
engine wear compared to low-sulfur petroleum-based fuels. Glycerol/water
mixtures have
been used as antifreeze for many applications. Cold weather fuel properties
that include
cloud point, viscosity, and flow characteristics of an emulsified glycerol
biodiescl based
fuel are expected to be superior to those properties of pure biodiesel or a
biodiesel
petroleum diesel. blend.
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In one aspect of the invention, there is provided a fuel mixture emulsion,
wherein
the fuel mixture includes: (a) a fuel, wherein the fuel includes a biodiesel;
and (b)
glycerol and water, wherein water is present in an amount less than about 30%
(wt/wt) of
the glycerol, wherein either (i) the fuel includes a plurality of droplets
substantially
evenly dispersed in the glycerol and water, or (ii) the glycerol and water
include a
plurality of droplets substantially evenly dispersed in the fuel.
In another aspect of the invention, there is provided a fuel mixture, wherein
the
fuel mixture consists essentially of: (a) a fuel, wherein the fuel consists
essentially of a
biodiesel; (b) glycerol and water, wherein water is present in an amount less
than about
30% (wt/wt) of the glycerol; and (c) a surfactant or a mixture of surfactants,
wherein
either (i) the fuel is present as a plurality of droplets substantially evenly
dispersed in the
glycerol and water, or (ii) the glycerol and water are present as a plurality
of droplets
substantially evenly dispersed in the fuel.
In a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a fuel mixture,
wherein the
fuel mixture consists essentially of: (a) a fuel, wherein the fuel consists
essentially of a
biodiesel or a biodiesel and a petroleum product; (b) glycerol and water,
wherein water is
present in an amount less than about 30% (wt/wt) of the glycerol; and (c) a
surfactant or a
mixture of surfactants, wherein either (i) the fuel is present as a plurality
of droplets
substantially evenly dispersed in the glycerol and water, or (ii) the glycerol
and water are
present as a plurality of droplets substantially evenly dispersed in the fuel.
In yet another aspect of the invention, there is provided a fuel mixture,
wherein
the fuel mixture consists essentially of: (a) a fuel, wherein the fuel
consists essentially of
a biodiesel and ultra-low sulfur diesel; (b) glycerol and water, wherein water
is present in
an amount less than about 30% (wt/wt) of the glycerol; and (c) a surfactant or
a mixture
of surfactants, wherein either (i) the fuel is present as a plurality of
droplets substantially
evenly dispersed in the glycerol and water, or (ii) the glycerol and water are
present as a
plurality of droplets substantially evenly dispersed in the fuel.
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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1.: Photograph of fuel mixture settling after three days at 25 degrees
Celsius.
The fuel mixture was comprised of canola oil derived biodiesel, 99% pure
glycerol, and
surfactant.
Figure .2: Photograph of Net mixture settling after 24 'hours at 25 degrees
Celsius.
The fuel mixture was comprised of B20 biodiesel blend stock made of waste
vegetable oil
derived biodiesel and ultra-low sulfur diesel, 99% pure glycerol and
surfactant.
Figure 3: Specific fuel consumption plotted as a function of engine power
output
for 1320 fuels with 0,9, 19 and 294 (vol/vol) of emulsified glycerol.
'Figure 4: NOx emissions plotted as a function of engine power output for 1320
fuels
with 0,9, 19 and 29 % (volivol)of emulsified glycerol.
Figure 5: Carbon monoxide emissions plotted as a ftmetion of engine power
output
for 1320 fuels with 0, 9, 19 and .29 % (volfvol)of emulsified glycerol.
Figure 6: "Photograph of fuel mixture as prepared showing well dispersed
emulsion
system. The fuel mixture comprised of 175 niL B50 biodiesel blend stock, made
of 50%
(volivol) waste vegetable oil derived biodiesel and 30% (vol/vol) ultra-low
sulfur diesel,
35% (vol/vol) 99% USP grade glycerol, and surfactant
Figure 7: Photograph of fuel mixture as prepared showing well dispersed
emulsion
system. The fuel mixture comprised of B20 biodiesel blend stock, made of 20%
(volivol)
waste vegetable oil derived biodiesel and 80% (vaval) ultra-low sulfur diesel,
36%
(yawl) 99% LISP etude glycerol, distilled water, combustion improver, and
surfactant.
DETAILED DESCR I PTION
Overview
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to fuel mixtures containing
glycerol
for consumption in heating, power and transportation applications. In certain
embodiments,
the invention provides fuel mixtures containing bio-tenewable fuel sources
containing
glycerol that resist phase separation for extended periods of time. In certain
embodiments,
the invention provides combustion emission reductions and higher fuel energy
density
when compared to water-fuel emulsion mixtures.
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In certain embodiments, the fuel mixtures according to the invention provide
an
important improvement over the related art because the fuel mixtures according
to the
invention use a biodiesel blend stock and are resistant to phase separation
for extended
periods of time. For the purposes of this invention description, fuel selected
from the group
consisting of 100% biodiesel, any mixture of biodiesel and various petroleum
diesel oils
and heating oil (No, 2), no matter the fuel sources or additives, are all
collectively
hereinafter referred to as "biodiesel blend stock." Biodiesel is derived from
sources such as,
but not limited to, soyhcan oil, waste fryer oils, animal fats, and various
types of algae. As
the combustion of biodiesel and glycerol does not create a net increase in
atmospheric CO2
.. they are classified as carbon neutral fuels.
Biodiesel is chemically differentiated from petroleum-based materials in
numerous
ways. Petroleum distillates contain over three hundred molecular species
comprised of
paraffin, iso-paraffin, olefin, naphthalenes, and mono- and poly-aromatics
type compounds.
the resulting hydrocarbon mixture covers a broad range of molecular weights
and contain
trace oxygenates. Alternatively, biodiesel is typically comprised of only a
few dozen
straight chain methyl- or ethyl-esters in a relatively narrow molecular weight
range. In
instances where biodiesel is derived from virgin vegetable oil sources, the
number of
chemical species may be less than 5. Further, biodiesel contains between 10%
and 12%
(wtiwt) oxygen exclusively as esters. The unique characteristics of biodiesel
therefore
makes emulsification of glycerol meaningfully and distinctly different
compared to existing
petroleum-based knowledge. As an example, polarity of long-chain esters found
in
biodiesel can offer surfactant properties when blended in petroleum products
by
preferentially adsorbing along glycerol droplet interfaces. Therefore, special
considerations
are required.
In certain embodiments, the invention involves mixing additives, glycerol and
glycerol soluble compounds, and a base-fuel (biodiesel or its mixtures with
petroleum
distillates) to achieve an emulsified Mel. The resulting fuel mixture
maintains dispersion of
the glycerol in the base fuel for extended periods of time, reduces engine
emissions and
offers engine-compatible fuel properties for safe and efficient combustion
applications.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to a fuel mixture containing
glycerol
and biodiesel blend stocks that can achieve reduced combustion emissions and
achieve
desirable fuel handling properties related to viscosity, lubricity, cold flow
performance. and
corrosion. Fuel mixtures containing glycerol and biodiesel do not readily
produce an
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emulsion and require stabilization of the dispersed glycerol droplets. The
hydrophobic or
polar component of biodiesel is a unique property compared with glycerol
emulsions
comprising non-polar hydrocarbons. Biodiesel's polar properties can improve
the shelf-life,
droplet size distribution, and other physical properties, as a result of the
interaction of
biodiesel with glycerol in the emulsions. Fuel mixtures described herein are
shown to be
resistant to phase separation and significantly reduced carbon foot print when
compared. to
petroleum-based fuels. The fuel mixtures achieves these benefits while
extending the
operating range of power equipment by maintaining higher energy densities
(Ml/kg) than
equivalent water-emulsion fuels.
As used herein, the term "settling" is intended to mean the emulsified
glycerol
droplets distributed in the mixture aggregate to the bottom of their container
when the fuel
mixture is allowed to stand undisturbed over a period of time. Depending on
the
formulation of the fuel mixture, emulsification technique and environmental
factors, such
as temperature, fuel emulsion settling times can vary from minutes to months.
In certain
embodiments, during the normal settling process for the invention, a free
layer of glycerol
is not observed. The formation of a free layer of glycerol would indicate
phase separation
has occurred. Mixing or other physical agitation disperses the glycerol
droplets back into
the hulk fuel, demonstrating that the emulsion is still intact.
In certain embodiments, an object of the invention is to provide a fuel
mixture that
has viscosity, energy density, and cold flow properties that are suitable for
use in heat,
power, and transportation applications, but which, upon combustion, produces
lower
emissions of SO2, NOxõ CO, and PM; and; CO?. and other greenhouse gases than
conventional fuels.
In a first aspect, the invention provides a fuel mixture comprising biodiesel
selected
from the group consisting of 100% biodiesel (B100), any mixture of biodiesel
and various
petroleum diesel oils and heating oil (No. 2), no matter the fuel sources or
additives; and
glycerol; with or without glycerol soluble compounds; surfactants; and with or
without
additives; wherein the mixture resists phase separation.
In some embodiments, the mixture comprises from about 1% to about 99%
biodiesel (wily*
In sonic embodiments, the mixture comprises from about 1% to about 99%
glycerol
(vol/vol). Most commercially available glycerol preparations contain certain
amounts of
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glycerol-soluble compounds, such as salts, methanol and water. It is preferred
that these
contaminants be present in the glycerol in such low quantities as to limit the
total
concentration of the contaminants in the fuel mixture to controlled levels.
To improve the combustion properties of the glycerol and biodiesel emulsion
fuel
mixture, combustion improvers may be added to the fuel as either biodiesel-
soluble or
glycerol-soluble compounds for the reduction of CO and unburned HC emissions.
In some
embodiments, the mixture comprises a combustion improver(s). In some
embodiments, the
combustion improver is selected from ethers, peroxides, nitrites, nitrates and
mixtures
thereof, but not limited to these improvers. In sonic embodiments, the
glycerol and
biodiesel emulsion fuel mixture contains combustion improvers in the amounts
of about
0.1% (volivol) to about 10% (vol/vol).
To improve the cold flow properties of the glycerol and biodiesel emulsion, in
certain embodiments, glycerol soluble compounds may be added for the reduction
of
glycerol droplet density and viscosity. In some embodiments, the mixture
contains glycerol-
soluble compounds selected from, but not limited to, water, low molecular
weight alcohols
such as methanol, ethanol, tert-butyl alcohol, and glycols such as ethylene
glycol. In sonic
embodiments, the mixture contains glycerol soluble compounds in the amounts of
about I.
% (yawl) to about 30% (vol/vol) of the fuel mixture.
The uniformity of the fuel mixture is determined in part by controlling the
size of
the glycerol droplets emulsified within the base fuel. Controlling the size of
the glycerol
droplets is also useful to allow the glycerol droplets to pass through the
fuel filters, which
generally have a particle size cutoff of about 2-30 pm. In some embodiments,
the glycerol
has droplet sizes of from about 0.1 pm to about 100 pm. In some embodiments,
the glycerol
has droplet sizes of from about 0.1 ton to about 50 pm.
In certain embodiments, the uniformity of the fuel mixture can be further
improved
by the addition of one or more surfactants to the fuel mixture. In some
embodiments, the
mixture comprises from about 0.1% to about 5% surfactant (we'wt). In some
embodiments,
the surfactant is selected from, but not limited to, the group consisting of
one or more of
polyethylene glycol, polyoxyethylene, glycerides, polyglycerols, sorbitan
glycosides, esters
and acids, or mixtures thereof
In some instances, the viscosity of the fuel mixture may be increased by
adding
viscosity enhancers to the biodiesel phase before emulsification with the
glycerol phase.
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Such viscosity enhancers include, without limitation, resins, resin acids,
polyureas,
nitmesters, polyolefins, elastomers, and mixtures thereof.
As discussed above, in certain embodiments, it is an object of the invention
to
provide a fuel mixture that, when combusted, produces lower emissions of SO2,
NOx, CO,
and PM and CO?. and other GHOs than conventional fuels used to power engines.
In some
embodiments, the mixture, when created, contains less than about 0.1% by mass
(wt/wt)
elemental sulfur. Combustion of biodiesel compared to petroleum-based diesel
fuel
produces a higher concentration of NOx under similar conditions. In certain
embodiments,
this invention, when combusted reduces NOx compared to biodiesel with minimal
reduction in power output. In some embodiments, NOx emissions are reduced from
about
0.1 % to about 25 % on a gm.41(W-hr) basis.
These reduced emissions can be achieved by using a fuel mixture that
incorporates
water as an emulsion. However, such fuel mixtures have poor cold flow
properties and
reduce the fuels energy density.
As discussed above, in certain embodiments, a significant advantage of the
embodiments of the fuel mixture according to the invention is that it resists
phase
separation for extended periods of time. In some embodiments, the fuel mixture
resists
phase separation for 24 hours at 25 C and 50-75% relative humidity. In sonic
embodiments,
the fuel mixture resists phase separation for over 6 months at 25 C and 50-75%
relative
humidity.
In certain embodiments, another advantage of the fuel mixture according to the
invention is it expected to have superior cold weather performance when
compared with
biodiesel (13100) or its blends with petroleum-based fuels. For example
biodiesel based on
coconut oil and palm oil exhibits pour points of -6 'V and +12 C,
respectively. The
emulsification of glycerol into a B100 fuel produces mixtures having pour
points between
about -30 C and about +10 C. In certain embodiments, the invention provides
emulsions
with pour points improved by from about 5 C to about 20 'C, the example, pour
points
improved by about 20 0C, improved by about 15 C. improved by about 10 C, or
improved
by about 5 C improved by about 20 *C., improved by about 15 'V, improved by
about 10
'C., or improved by about 5 C; as compared to the pour point of the 8100 or
its blends with
petroleum-based fuels.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to fuel mixtures comprising
biodiesel and glycerol. Fuel mixtures comprising glycerol are described in
U.S. Patent
No. 8,679,202.
Exemplary Fuel Mixtures
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to a fuel mixture emulsion,
wherein
the fuel mixture comprises:
(a) a fuel, wherein the fuel comprises a biodiesel; and
(b) glycerol and water, wherein water is present in an amount less than
about
30% (wt/wt) of the glycerol,
wherein either (i) the fuel comprises a plurality of droplets substantially
evenly
dispersed in the glycerol and water, or (ii) the glycerol and water comprise a
plurality of droplets substantially evenly dispersed in the fuel.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein water is present in an amount less than about 25%
(wt/wt) of
the glycerol. In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the
fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein water is present in an amount from about 0% to about
25%
(wt/wt) of the glycerol. In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any
one of the
fuel mixtures described herein, wherein water is present in an amount of about
26%,
about 24%, about 22%, about 20%, about 18%, about 16%, about 14%, about 12%,
about
10%, about 8%, about 6%, about 4%, about 2%, or about 0% (wt/wt) of the
glycerol.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the fuel is 100% biodiesel (B100), a mixture of
biodiesel and a
petroleum diesel oil, a mixture of biodiesel and a heating oil, or a mixture
of biodiesel,
.. petroleum diesel oil, and a heating oil.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the fuel is 100% biodiesel (B100).
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the mixture comprises from about 1% to about 99%
fuel
(vol/vol).
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In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the mixture comprises from about 65% to about 99%
fuel
(volivol).
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the mixture comprises from about 40% to about 65 %
fuel
(vol/vol).
In certain embodiments, the invention Mates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the mixture comprises about 40%, about 42%, about
44%, about
46%, about 48%, about 50,10, about 52%, about 54%, about 56%, about 58%, about
60%,
about 62%, about 64%, or about 66% fuel (volivol).
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fiel mixtures
described herein, wherein the mixture comprises from about 1% to about 99%
glycerol
(vol/vol).
in certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the mixture comprises from about 1% to about 35%
glycerol
(volivol).
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the mixture comprises from about 35% to about 60%
glycerol
(vol/vol).
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the mixture comprises about 34%, about 36%, about
38%, about
40%, about 42%, about 44%, about 46%, about 48%, about 50%, about 52%, about
54%,
about 56%, about 58%, or about 60% glycerol (vol/vol).
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the fuel mixture further comprises a combustion
improver.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the combustion improver is selected from the group
consisting of
nitrates, nitrites, ethers, and peroxides, and mixtures thereof
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the mixture comprises the combustion improver in an
amount
from about 0.1% to about 10 % (vol/vol). In certain embodiments, the invention
relates to
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any one of the filed mixtures described herein, wherein the mixture comprises
the
combustion improver in an amount of about 0.1%, about 1%, about 2%, about 3%,
about
4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, or about 10 !lc.
(vol/vol).
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel -mixtures
described herein, wherein the droplets further comprise an alcohol.
in certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the alcohol is present in an amount of from about
0.1% to about
% (vol/vol) of the glycerol. In certain embodiments, the invention relates to
any one of
the fuel mixtures described herein, wherein the alcohol is present in an
amount of about
10 0.1%, about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about. 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about
7%, about 8%,
about 9%, or about 10 % (vol/vol) of the glycerol.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the alcohol has less than 5 carbon atoms per
molecule.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the mixture further comprises a surfactant.
hi certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the surfactant is selected from the group consisting
of a
polyethylene glycol, a polyoxyethylene, a glyceride, a polyglyeerol, a
sorbitan glycoside, an
ester, and an acid, and mixtures thereof.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, further comprising a viscosity enhancer selected from the
group
consisting of a resin, a resin acid, a polyurea, a nitmester, a polyolefin,
and an elastomer,
and mixtures thereof.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the mixture contains less than about. 0.1% by mass
elemental
sulfur.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the mixture resists phase separation for 24 hours at
25 QC with
relative humidity between 50-75%.
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In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the mixture exhibits improved cloud point or in
cold flow
characteristics when compared with biodieseI.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the mixture exhibits improved cloud point or
improved cold flow
characteristics when compared with biodieselipetroleum diesel blends.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, further comprising an antioxidant.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the antioxidant is present in an amount of from
about 0.1% to
about 5% (volivol) of the mixture. In certain embodiments, the invention
relates to any one
of the fuel mixtures described herein, wherein the antioxidant is present in
an amount of
about 0.1%, about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, or about 5% (vol/vol) of
the
mixture.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the droplets have diameters of from about 100 nm to
about
50 micrometers, In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of
the fuel
mixtures described herein, wherein the droplets have diameters of from about
100 TIM to
about 10 micrometers. In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one
of the fuel
mixtures described herein, wherein the droplets have diameters of about 100
nm, about 200
nm, about 300 mu, about 400 nm, about 500 inn, about 600 nm, about 700 nm,
about 800
nm, about 900 nm, about 1 pm, about 2 gm, about 3 pm, about 4 pm, about 5 pm,
about 6
pm, about 7 pm, about 8 gm, about 9 gm, or about 10 pm.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the average diameter of the droplets is from about
100 mu to
about 50 micrometers, as determined by dynamic light scattering. In certain
embodiments,
the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures described herein,
wherein the average
diameter of the droplets is from about 100 nm to about 10 micrometers, as
determined by
dynamic light scattering. In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any
one of the
fuel mixtures described herein, wherein the droplets have diameters of about
100 nm, about
200 mu, about 300 nm, about 400 nm, about 500 am, about 600 mu. about 700 nm,
about
800 nm, about 900 nm, about I pm, about 2 pm, about 3 pm, about 4 pm, about 5
gm,
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about 6 um, about 7 um, about 8 pm, about 9 um, or about 10 um, as determined
by
dynamic light scattering.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to a fuel mixture, wherein the
fuel
mixture consists essentially of.
(a) a fuel, wherein the fuel consists essentially of a biodiesel and an ultra-
low sulfur
diesel;
(b) glycerol and water, wherein water is present in an amount less than about
30%
(wtiwt) of the glycerol; and
(e) a surfactant or a mixture. ofsurfactants,
wherein either (1) the fuel is present as a plurality of droplets
substantially evenly
dispersed in the glycerol and water, or (ii) the glycerol and water are
present as a
plurality of droplets substantially evenly dispersed in the fuel.
hi certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein water is present in an amount less than about 25%
(wtAvt) of the
glycerol. In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel
mixtures
described herein, wherein water is present in an amount from about 0.1% to
about 25%
(wt/wt) of the glycerol. In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any
one of the fuel
mixtures described, herein, wherein water is present is an amount of about
26%, about 24%,
about 22%, about 20%, about 18%, about 16%, about 14%. about 12%, about 10%,
about
8%, about 6%, about 4%, about 2%, or about 0.1% (wt/wt) of the glycerol.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to a fuel mixture, wherein the
fuel
mixture consists essentially of:
(a) a fuel, wherein the fuel consists essentially of a biodiesel;
(b) glycerol and water, wherein water is present in an amount less than about
30%
(wt/wt) of the glycerol; and
(e) a surfactant or a mixture of surfactants,
wherein either (i) the fuel is present as a plurality of droplets
substantially evenly
dispersed in the glycerol and water, or (ii) the glycerol and water are
present as a
plurality of droplets substantially evenly dispersed in the fuel.
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In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein water is present in an amount less than about 25%
(wt/W1) of the
glycerol. In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel
mixtures
described herein, wherein water is present in an amount from about 0.1% to
about 25%
(wt/wt) of the glycerol. In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any
one of the fuel
mixtures described herein, wherein water is present is an amount of about 26%,
about 24%,
about 22%, about 20%, about 18%, about 16%, about 14%, about 12%, about 10%,
about
8%, about 6%, about 4%, about 2%, or about 0.1% (wt/wt) of the glycerol.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the fuel is present in an amount from about 1% to
about 99%
(yawl).
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the fuel is present in an amount from about 65% to
about 99%
In certain embodiments, the .invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the fuel is present in an amount from about 40% to
about 65%
(vol/vol).
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the fuel is present in an. amount of about 40%,
about 42%, about
44%, about 46%, about 4%, about 50%, about 52%, about 54%, about 56%, about
5%,
about 60%, about 62%, about 64%, or about 66% fuel (vol/vol).
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein glycerol is present in an amount from about 10% to
about 60%
(volivol).
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the foci mixtures
described 'herein, wherein the glycerol is present in an amount of about 18%,
about 20%,
about 22%, about 24%, about 26%, about 28%, about 30%, about 32%, about 34%,
about
36%, about 38%, about 40%. about 42%, about 44%, or about 46% (vol/vol).
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the surfactant is a non-ionic surfactant.
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In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the surfactant is selected from the group consisting
of a
polyethylene glycol, a polyoxyethylene, a glyceride, a polyglycerol, a
sorbitan glycoside, an
ester, and an acid, and mixtures thereof.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the mixture contains less than about 0.1% by mass
&mental
sulfur.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the mixture resists phase separation at 25 C with
relative
humidity between 50-75%.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the mixture exhibits improved cloud point or
improved cold flow
characteristics when compared with biodiesel.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the mixture exhibits improved cloud point or
improved cold flow
characteristics when compared with biodiesellpetroleum diesel blends.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the droplets have diameters of from about 100 am to
about
50 micrometers. In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of
the fuel
mixtures described herein, wherein the droplets have diameters of from about
100 inn to
about 10 micrometers. In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one
of the fuel
mixtures described herein, wherein the droplets have diameters of about 100
.nm, about 200
nm, about 300 urn, about 400 nm, about 500 inn, about 600 nm, about 700 inn,
about 800
urn. about 900 nm, about 1 gm, about 2 gm, about 3 pm, about 4 gm, about 5 pm,
about 6
pm, about 7 pin, about 8 gm, about 9 gm, or about 10
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures
described herein, wherein the average diameter of the droplets is from about
100 um to
about 50 micrometers, as determined by dynamic light scattering. In certain
embodiments,
the invention relates to any one of the fuel mixtures described herein,
wherein the average
diameter of the droplets is from about 100 mu to about 10 micrometers, as
determined by
dynamic light scattering. In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any
one of the
fuel mixtures described herein, wherein the droplets have diameters of about
100 am, about
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2(X) rim, about 300 urn, about 400 nm, about 500 nin, about 600 run, about 700
nm, about
800 nm, about 900 nm, about 1 pm, about 2 pm, about 3 pm, about 4 pm, about 5
pm,
about 6 gm, about 7 pm, about 8 pm, about 9 pm, or about 10 pm, as determined
by
dynamic light scattering.
Exemplary Methods
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to a method of powering or
fueling an
engine or boiler comprising combusting any of the fuel mixtures described
herein. In
certain embodiments, the invention relates to a method of powering or fueling
an ermine or
boiler comprising combusting an effective amount of any or the fuel mixtures
described
herein.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the methods
described
herein, wherein the method results in reduced wear in the engine or boiler as
compared to
the wear produced by combustion of the same amount of a petroleum product.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the methods
described
herein, wherein the engine is an internal combustion engine.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the methods
described
herein, wherein the engine is a diesel engine.
In certain embodiments, the invention relates to any one of the methods
described
herein, wherein the method results in lower emissions of carbon monoxide (CO),
sulfur
dioxide (SO2), nitrous oxides (N0x), or carbon dioxide (CO2), or reduced
quantities of
particulate matter (PM), as compared to a method of powering or fueling the
engine or
boiler with the same amount of a petroleum product.
EXEMPLIFICATION
The invention now being generally described, it will be more readily
understood by
reference to the following examples, which arc included merely for purposes of
illustration
of certain aspects and. embodiments of the invention, and are not intended to
limit the
invention.
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EXAMPLE 1
Demonstration of an Emulsion Fuel with Biodiesel (11100) base fuel, 99% pure
Glycerol
and a Surt'actant System that is Resistant to Phase Separation for Extended
Periods of Time.
In a typical experiment, 50 triL of 99% pure glycerol was placed in a 300-mL
wide-
mouth beaker. The following components were then added to this beaker; 150
triL of 100%
Biodiesel (B100) derived from food grade canola oil, 10 mL of distilled water,
0.5 mL
sorbitan monooleate, 0.25 mL sorbitan trioleate, and 0.5 mi.
polyoxyethylenesorbitan
monooleate. Using a handheld mixer, the fuel components were stirred for 60
seconds at
approximately 1000 rpm. This mixing produced a macro-emulsion, where no free
glycerol
was observed. This intermediate macro-emulsion was then processed through a
high
pressure homogenizer. The resultant emulsified fuel was a light yellow in
appearance with a
viscosity of 7 est. at 25 degrees Celsius. After standing undisturbed for 3
days at 25 degrees
Celsius, settling was observed as shown in Figure 1. After standing for 6
months no further
settling was observed. No phase separation was observed during this time. The
mixture was
gently stirred by hand which redistributed the emulsified particles into the
bulk fuel.
EXAMPLE 2
Demonstration of an Emulsion Fuel with Biodiesel (1320) base fuel, 99% pure
Glycerol and
a Surfactant System that is Resistant to Phase Separation for Extended Periods
of Time.
In a typical experiment, 375 naL of 99% pure glycerol was placed in a 2-L
flask,
The following components were then added to this flask: 650 ml. of B20
comprised of 20%
(vol/vol) biodicsel produced from waste vegetable oils and 80% (vol/vol) ultra-
low sulfur
diesel, 10 mi. of distilled water, 3.25 nil.. sorbitan monooleate, 2.5 mL
sorbitan trioleate,
and 2.25 rnL polyoxyethylenesorbitan monooleate. Using a handheld mixer, the
fuel
components were stirred for 90 seconds at approximately 1000 rpm. This
produced a
macro-emulsion, where no free glycerol was observed. This intermediate macro-
emulsion
was then processed through a high pressure homogenizer. The resultant
emulsified fuel was
a light orange cloudy mixture in appearance with a viscosity of 5,5 cst and a
density of
0.94 g naL'i at 40 degrees Celsius. The resulting glycerol concentration in
the fuel mixture
is 29% (vol/vol). Important fuel properties can be found in Tables 11 and III
below that
includes this fuel (F) and others produced by similar technique.
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Table II: Mass-based composition of glycerol emulsion fuels used to compare
and contrast
fuel properties of traditional fuels to glycerol emulsion fuels.
Composition
Fuel Dioel Biodiesel Glycerol Water Surtlictant
Mass % Mass % Mass % Mass % Mass %
A 100 _
13 100 _ - -
C 80 20 . _
D 71.0 14181 12.9 1.0 1.2
E 60.5 11.6 25.9 0.9 1.1
F 50.9 9.3 37.9 0.9 1.1
G 42.1 7.3 48.8 0.8 1.0
Table lib Pertinent physical and chemical fuel properties of glycerol emulsion
fuels for
fuels with composition described in Table II.
Specific Kinematic Average
Fuel 1/1V HytlinwniCati)on OxygerVCarbon Gravity Viscosity Molecular
Air! Fuel
Ratio Ratio (i4 40 C Iii. 40 C Weight
Ratio
klikg kg.fl, est. kgikinol kg./k8
A 44.3(8) 2.13 0 0.82 2.3 228.8 14.69
B 39,000 1.88 0.12 0.84 4.4 270.7 12.17
C 43,240 2.08 0.02 0.82 2.5 236.2 14.19
D 39,243 2.14 0.09 0.84 2.8 180.4 12.90
E 35,684 2.19 0.17 0.94 3.7 156.7 11.73
F 32A34 2.24 0./5 0.94 5.5 140.0 10.66
G 29,456 7.19 0.34 0.98 9.5 127.5 9.68
A fuel mixture sample of 15 mt.: was removed from the container and placed in
a
20-ml. round bottom vial. The height of fuel mixture in the vial was recorded.
At 30-minute
intervals, the fuel mixture was monitored for settling by recording the
distance from the
free fuel mixture surface to the emulsion layer interface. This distance
describes the cream
layer of biodiesel blend stock. Results from this settling measurement are
recorded in Table
IV in which the fuel (29 % vol.) is presented with fuel mixtures of varying
glycerol content
prepared by similar technique. The fuel had a cream layer thickness of 26 mm
after 60
minutes which corresponds to an average glycerol droplet diameter of 38.45
micrometers
when using the Stokes Equation. After standing undisturbed for 24 hours at 25
degrees
Celsius, settling was observed in the fuel emulsion as shown in Figure 2.
However, no
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phase separation was observed. After standing for 3 weeks no further settling
was observed
and no signs of phase separation were observed. The mixture was gently stirred
by hand
which redistributed the emulsified particles into the bulk fuel.
Table IV: Glycerol droplet size data for finis mixtures produced from 820
biodiesel blend
stock with emulsified glycerol accounting for 19, 29, and 39 % vol of the fuel
mixture.
Glycerol Content in Settling Setting Droplet Velocity
Droplet Diameter
H20 Base Fuel Time Divlacernent (Average) (Average)
Volume % Mimes mm Micrometers
14 24 2.5"t0 80.9
/9 40 3.85* [Ws 29.7
Average Diameter 55.3
30 2.78* HO 25.2
29 60 26 1.17*10 51.7
Average Diameter 38.4$
5 2.78* I e 25.2
39 60 20 8.33* I 0 43.7
Average Diameter 34.45
The fuel mixture was burned in a naturally-aspirated single-cylinder Hatz 1830
diesel engine at a constant speed of 2,500 RPM over a load range from 1.5-5
kW. Engine
10 specific emissions of 02, CO2, NO, and CO were monitored continuously.
The engine has a
displacement of 347 cm3, compression ratio of 1:22 and bore and stroke of 80
and 69 mm,
respectively. The fuel mixture when combusted produced specific fuel
consumption within
the range of 200-350 gmi(kW-hr) as described in Figure 3. NOx emissions were
consistently in the range of 2.8-3.2 gml(kW-hr) as described in Figure 4 and
CO emissions
were comparable to the 820 biodiesel blend stock as shown in Figure 5.
EXAMPLE 3
Demonstration of Emulsion Creation with Biodiesel (950) base fuel,
99% pure Glycerol and Surfactant System
In a typical experiment, 90 mL of 99% pure glycerol was placed in a 300-mL
beaker. The following components were then added to this beaker; 175 nil of
950
biodiesel blend stock, consisting of 50% (vol/vol) waste vegetable oil derived
biodiesel and
50 vol. 4 ultra-low sulfur diesel, 0.25 nil, sorbitan monooleate, 0.5 niL
sorbitan trioleate,
and 0.50 mL polyoxyethylenesorbitan monoolcate. Using a handheld mixer, the
fuel
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components were stirred for 60 seconds at approximately 1000 rpm. This
produced a
macro-emulsion, where no free glycerol was observed. This intermediate macro-
emulsion
was then processed through a high pressure homogenizer. The resultant
emulsified fuel was
a light orange cloudy mixture in appearance (Figure 6) with a viscosity of 40
cst. at 40
degrees Celsius. After standing undisturbed for 24 hours at 25 degrees
Celsius, settling was
observed in the fuel emulsion. However, no phase separated glycerol was
observed. After
standing for 3 weeks, no fitrther settling was observed and no signs of phase
separation
were observed. The mixture was gently stirred by hand which redistributed the
emulsified
particles into the bulk fuel.
EXAMPLE 4
Demonstration of Emulsion Creation with Biodiesel (B20) base fuel,
99% pure Glycerol, Combustion Improver and Surfactant System
In a typical experiment, 94 triL of 99% pure glycerol was placed in a 300-mL
beaker. The following components were then added to this beaker; 163 mL of B20
biodiesel blend stock, consisting of 20% (vol/vol) waste vegetable oil-derived
biodicsel and
80% (vol/vol) ultra-low sulfur diesel, 0,2 mL 2-ethylhexyl nitrate, 2,50 .rni.
distilled water,
0.50 mL sorbitan monooleate, 0.50 niL sorbitan trioleate, and 0.50 mI.
polyoxyethylenesorbitan monooleate. Using a handheld mixer, the fuel
components were
stirred for 60 seconds at approximately 1000 rpm. This produced a macro-
emulsion, where
no free glycerol was observed. This intermediate macro-emulsion was then
processed
through a high pressure homogenizer. The resultant emulsified fuel was a light
orange
cloudy mixture in appearance as shown in Figure 7 with a viscosity of 6.5 cst.
at 40 degrees
Celsius. After standing undisturbed for 24 hours at 25 degrees Celsius,
settling was
observed in the fuel emulsion. However, no phase separated glycerol was
observed. The
mixture was gently stirred by hand which redistributed the emulsified
particles into the bulk
fuel.
EXAMPLE 5 (Prophetic)
In a typical experiment, 36.9 gallons of glycerol purified to 99% purity is
placed in
an 80-gallon steel kettle. 4.16 gallons of water and 1 gallon ethanol is then
added to the
kettle. This material is defined as the "secondary phase." Using an overhead
propeller
stirrer, the secondary phase material is stirred at 900 RPM for 90 seconds. In
a second steel
kettle, 225 gallons of biodiesel is added to a mixture comprised of 4.7
gallons sorbitan
22
monooleate, 0.82 gallons sorbitan trioleate and 2,2 gallons
polyoxyerhyIenesorbitan
monooleate. This material is referred to as the "primary phase." The primary
phase material
is agitated using an overhead stirrer for 90 seconds at 900 RPM, The primary
and secondary
phase materials are brought together to form an emulsions using a dual-feed
sonolator
processor operating at 50 T and 3,000 psi pressure. The weight ratio of
primaty-to-
secondary phase material is 4:1.,The emulsion product is stored in a steel
tank to which
10,000 ppm (wt,/wt.) of 2-ethylhexyl nitrate is added. The resulting fuel is
transferred to
shipping containers for offsite usage such as ship propulsion, or consumed on
site in an
industrial boiler or diesel generator tbr the production of heat or power.
EQUIVALENTS
Those skilled in. the art will, recognize, or be able to ascertain using no
more than
routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific embodiments of the
invention
described herein, Such equivalents are intended to be encompassed by the
followinit
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